Fleas
Fleas are tiny insects known for two things: their phenomenal jumping
ability and their annoying, itchy bites. Most fleas hitch a ride into
your home on the back of your family dog, cat, or other pet. According
to the professionals at Terminix,
once inside, a large population of fleas can build up in an amazingly
short period of time. In fact, 20 fleas on a dog can produce over 2,000
eggs in a week. Because fleas usually feed and lay eggs while a pet is
sleeping, the pet's sleeping area is where you'll find most fleas.
Controlling a flea infestation requires four steps: 1) prepare for
treatment, 2) treat pets, 3) treat the house, and 4) treat the outdoors.
Preparing for Treatment
For maximum effectiveness, before starting any flea treatment program
you should:
- Remove all items such as toys, clothes, and pet food from all floors.
- Remove all items from under beds and closet floors.
- Wash or replace bedding.
- Vacuum all carpets and rugs, including beneath beds.
- Upholstered furniture should be vacuumed as well.
- Clean all wood, tile, and linoleum floors by sweeping and mopping.
- Clean concrete floors with soap and water.
- Remove all pets, including birds and reptiles.
- Cover fish tanks with a damp towel and turn off the air pump.
- Replace any pet bedding outdoors and make all shaded areas, crawl spaces, and other breeding areas available for treatment.
- Arrange to be out of your home for several hours so your treatment has time to thoroughly dry.
Treating Pets
Consult your veterinarian for advice on the most effective way to treat
your pet.
Treating the House
A pest control service professional can use special equipment to treat
your home with an insect growth inhibitor.
Treating the Outdoors
Your service professional will service shaded areas, shrubs and beneath
decks where pets rest and sleep.
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To control problem fleas in your home, schedule a free pest evaluation
from Terminix.
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